School snacks can be healthy and delicious

By The Soyfoods Council

As the nation’s children head back to school, parents are reminded that soy plant protein creates satisfying between-meal snacks, for high-energy kids. According to the latest available statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 49.5 million students were enrolled in public schools (pre-kindergarten through 12th grade) in 2021.

Those figures mean that a substantial number of kids and their parents this year, will look for snack ideas.

Choices include shareable snacks, like tofu-based dips, with fresh vegetables, sweet treats with a burst of plant protein, and grab-and-go snacks, like edamame, that are perfect for busy families on activity-filled school days. One bag of frozen edamame in the pod can be microwaved in less than five minutes, and provides approximately 6 to 8 grams of protein, per serving.

Consider the advantages of soyfoods when looking for snack ideas and shelf-stable ingredients to keep on hand to make them. Among legumes, soybeans are unique, because of their higher protein and fat content, and lower carbohydrate content. One cup of soymilk provides 7 to 8 grams of protein, while one cup of silken tofu has approximately 8 grams of protein.

Buttermilk Ranch Dip – with its kid-friendly flavor profile – complements garden-fresh vegetables, like bell pepper strips, cucumber slices and carrot sticks. Make-ahead tofubased pie fillings are snackworthy when served solo by the scoop or accompanied by berries, banana slices or seasonal fruits. Cookie are ideal for packable snacks or after-school treats.

For recipes, visit thesoyfoodscouncil. com.

The Soyfoods Council is a non-profit organization, created and funded by Iowa soybean farmers, providing a complete resource to increase awareness of soyfoods, educate and inform media, healthcare professionals, consumers, and the retail and foodservice market, about the many benefits of soyfoods.